Native Plants

Native plants have been part of the fabric of this land for longer than humans – they belong in our landscapes. Yet, depending on where they are growing and how they are affecting their surroundings, they may be considered (ob)noxious weeds. Native species cannot really be called invaders – these are their natural habitats, after all – but they can at times cause harm to their neighbors, such as humans and livestock, crops and waterways. In these cases, it is important to not only identify the species, but also to accurately determine whether it is truly causing harm where it is growing. Native plants growing in their natural context should be left alone when they are not causing harm, since they are crucial to wildlife and proper ecosystem function.

Plants included in this category are native to the United States, but are considered noxious only under certain circumstances; make sure to check whether it is truly causing harm before attempting removal!